Pholistoma auritum is a small (to 15cm), fleshy annual species of California, Nevada and Arizona. In California, the species is found in "ocean bluffs, talus slopes, woodlands, streambanks, canyons, desert scrub" from elevations of 0-1900m (0-6200ft.). For the most part, it occupies the southern two-thirds of the state, with only one-few disjunct populations in the north. Common names for the species include fiestaflower or blue fiestaflower.

Pinnacles is fascinating geologically as well as botanically. It is half of an old volcano located on the San Andreas fault which moved north millions of years ago, leaving the other half, much eroded, near Los Angeles. It is also the site where condors are released.